KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Governor General Patrick Allen, is urging the nation’s youth to be proactive in safeguarding themselves from predators.

Speaking at the national launch of the Girls’ Brigade Month and Tag Drive, held yesterday at King’s House in Kingston, the Governor-General said that with increased reports of violent attacks on women and children, young people must be particularly vigilant in observing safety precautions to keep themselves from harm.

“You have to be on the alert. Be careful of the taxis and buses you get on. If you feel uneasy in any situation, step away from it. As you go out, keep your eyes open and be aware of your surroundings,” he urged.

Noting that in some cases the home environment may prove to be unsafe, the Governor General advised the youth to seek the help of a trusted adult to get out of the situation, and urged parents and guardians to play their part in safeguarding children from abuse.

He commended members of the Girls’ Brigade for their commitment to community service, and pledged his support.

The Girls’ Brigade is celebrating March as ‘Brigade Month’, under the theme – ‘Be Empowered: Take a Stand’, with the aim of promoting the youth service organisation and raising some $2 million to fund outreach activities and club programmes.

The month of activities includes a national thanksgiving service to be held at Portmore United Church on March 19. This will be followed by the National Rally and Fellowship Day of all brigade groups at St. Paul’s United Church in Montego Bay on March 25.

Established in Jamaica in 1923, the Girls’ Brigade is an international Christian youth organisation that promotes Christian values and leadership among girls and women.